Deer 

This is Deer, painted by Niko Pirosmani, likely on oilcloth rather than canvas, a common choice for his paintings. Pirosmani was self-taught, and his work possesses a directness that testifies to this. The immediacy of the image is reinforced by the materials he used. He often painted on whatever surfaces he could find, sometimes using house paint instead of traditional artist's pigments. The dark background, roughly applied, contrasts with the more detailed rendering of the deer itself, with its expressive eyes and delicate features. The texture of the oilcloth is visible beneath the paint, adding another layer of depth to the work. Pirosmani's paintings were often commissioned by local businesses, like taverns and shops, and are a wonderful example of how making and materials intertwine with social context. He lived a humble life, and his art reflects his connection to the everyday world around him, challenging the traditional hierarchies between fine art and craft.